GRE Online Resources and Affordable Study Options

The GRE includes 82 questions that cover writing and reasoning topics. Many graduate schools use the exam score as an admission requirement. Grad school applicants can take the exam online or at a testing center.

Typically, aspiring STEM majors pursuing a graduate degree take the exam. GRE requirements vary by college, so not every student applying to graduate school takes the exam. Recent data reveals that 88% of test-takers are under age 30. Additionally, 66% of test-takers complete the GRE as an undergraduate senior or after graduation.

The first section measures analytical writing. One question in this section focuses on analyzing an issue. The other focuses on analyzing an argument. The GRE also includes 40 verbal reasoning questions and 40 quantitative reasoning questions. The amount of unscored and research questions vary.

Learners should check with their prospective graduate school for GRE requirements. Usually, STEM majors must take the exam. However, learners unsure about their future study plans can still take the GRE. Scores stay valid for five years after the test date.

The ETS allows students to take the GRE online or at a testing center. Learners can access a list of testing centers. In-person test-takers need a valid form of ID.

Although active service members and veterans typically must pay full price upfront, they may qualify for reimbursement. The GI Bill® covers standardized test fees and tuition. It covers both the GRE General and GRE Subject versions. Learn about reimbursement eligibility here.

Some schools offer GRE test fee scholarships. For example, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley covers fees for students admitted unconditionally. Applicants should contact a prospective school's admissions department for more information.

Before paying for the GRE out of pocket, learners should first check with their employer. Some employers include application and test fees in incentive packages. Some companies give employees a continuing education allowance. The GRE fee may qualify as a covered expense. Typically, a human resources department handles requests for GRE resources and funds.

The ETS provides a Fee Reduction Program for specific individuals. Qualifying test-takers receive $100 worth of free study materials. To request a reduction, students can complete an application form. Without a scholarship or reduction, learners should expect to pay around $205.

With the GRE and other standardized tests, the questions themselves aren't extremely hard. It's the format that's difficult. The best way to prepare is to take full-length, timed practice tests under similar conditions.

I started my prep about a month before the exam. My prep book included two full-length, scored practice tests. I first familiarized myself with question types and then practiced them in an untimed format. Once I understood the different question types and their instructions, I took the first practice exam.

The library. In addition to taking advantage of GRE study materials within its collection, I also took a practice exam in a Philadelphia Free Library cubicle to try to simulate the environment as best I could. I brought some earplugs to block out the sound.

After taking the first practice test, spend a few days reviewing the question types you found most challenging. Then take a second practice test. Make sure you set aside time every day for GRE practice work.

Schedule two practice exams before testing day, and take them seriously. Look for materials that offer the most timed, full-length, computerized practice tests.